Hello:
I have a question. Does the use of the word "uncle" in Germany have the
same meaning as the word "uncle" in America. I have a situation of a
Heinrich Mackeben born 1825 and my great grandfather Louis Mackeben born
1865.
The children of Heinrich called my g grandfather "uncle". A letter from
the church in Rehburg does not seem to confirm that Heinrich and Louis were
brothers. I have not seen the original church book so I have to assume that
the pastor sent me the right information, so my conclusion is that the use
of the word "uncle" has a differant meaning.
Thanks
Doug Plowman
Date sent: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 07:54:47 -0500
Hello:
I have a question. Does the use of the word "uncle" in Germany
have the
same meaning as the word "uncle" in America.
It's actually 'Onkel' and the literal translation gives you the same relational
connection as we have in Anglo-Saxon land. On the other hand in both cultures
close friends or family members may also be referred to as uncle for the sake of the
children. This also goes for a 'close' friend of the mother.
In Germany it was and still is not kosher for kids to call adults by their first name so
Uncle John is an easy way out for the children to address adults.
Fred
26 Warren St.
Beverly, NJ 08010
FredRump@earthlink.net
215-205-2841 (cell)
presently on the road staying at the York Fairgrounds in York, PA